Declarations – West

Good Jobs, Stable Economy

“The fact of the matter is that North Dakota is attracting new residents across the entire state for good jobs and a stable economy.”

—North Dakota Census Committee Chairman Rod Backman responds to recent U.S. Census Bureau population estimates showing that two North Dakota towns are among the fastest-growing in the nation. Williston is the fastest-growing micropolitan area in the country; a micropolitan area is one that has a population between 10,000 and 49,999. Dickinson is the third fastest-growing micropolitan area. Backman said the census “estimates refer to residents and not temporary workers or others who view their home residence in another state.”

Opposes WC Fund

“This proposal would put the state in the business of operating an insurance company that would compete with private carriers.”

—Deirdre Manna, vice president of industry, regulatory and political affairs for the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI). The insurer trade group opposes Illinois House Bill 2919, which would create a state workers’ compensation insurance fund. The bill cleared the Illinois State House’s Committee on State Government Administration.

Second Thoughts

“It’d be kind of strange playing that hole again, for sure.”

—Golfer Mark Mihal, a mortgage broker from Creve Coeur, Mo., who fell into a sinkhole that opened up beneath him at the 14th hole at Annbriar Golf Course in southwestern Illinois. The pit was 18 feet deep and 10 feet wide; he was hoisted to safety with a rope. Although Mihal says he still considers the course one of his favorites, he’s having second thoughts about returning there.

Added Competition

“This is additional competition – the health care insurers will be competing for our business, rather than feeling like you never have any leverage to negotiate with a health insurance company.”

—State Rep. Joe Atkins, author of a bill that has passed the Minnesota House that would create an online health insurance marketplace. It’s estimated that 1.3 million Minnesotans would purchase coverage through the exchange, saving an average of $490 a year in health insurance costs.